Isolator & Damper
Isolator & Damper
disturbing) frequency. Keeping these two frequencies "out of sync" greatly reduces the problems
of vibration. A good vibration damper takes mechanical energy out of the system. Properly
designed metal springs and rubber mounts can be good isolators but have almost no damping
capability. Oil dampers (dashpots) have good damping capability but no isolation capability.
Foam products can be good isolators but have limited life
A vibration isolator allows a percentage of the source vibration to pass across it. To isolate the
system from the source the isolator needs a resonant (or natural) frequency lower than the
isolated frequencies. The isolator also needs a high level of damping to avoid excessive vibration
at resonance. An automobile suspension uses soft springs and a high level of damping to provide
a smooth ride.